WACO, Texas — Licensed therapists Jennifer Caballero with Bud & Blossom Counseling and Jessica Frasier with Hope Again Counseling partner with Wilkerson Hatch Bailey Funeral Home to host a free "Grief and the Holidays" workshop on Dec. 5. The event aims to support those navigating loss during the most challenging season of the year.
"Just to create a safe space for folks who may be grieving the loss of a loved one during this holiday season," Caballero said.
The workshop draws inspiration from nature, specifically the approaching winter solstice on Dec. 21, which is the longest night of the year.
"When we think about grief and loss, that often feels like where a lot of people are - that there just seems to be more darkness than light," Caballero explained. "What we understand about our world is that slowly, between December and June, we get a little bit more daylight daily."
For many, the holiday season's emphasis on joy and family gatherings can intensify feelings of loss.
Frasier, a Licensed Professional Counselor, notes the disconnect many grieving people feel.
"The world is happy, right? The commercials are happy. Everybody is joyful, singing Christmas carols and shopping," Frasier said. "And it seems like everybody is joyful, and then grieving people feel very different."
The counselors will share practical strategies for navigating holiday gatherings and finding meaningful ways to honor absent loved ones during the workshop. Suggestions include sharing memories, looking through photographs, or giving gifts that a person would have chosen.
"We engage with the holidays differently by just honoring our loss. And sometimes that's lighting a candle at the dining table representing the person who's not there. And sometimes that's creating a memory box and sharing funny memories of that person or sad memories or anything," said Frasier.
Most importantly, the workshop provides a space where participants can find understanding and permission to experience whatever emotions the season brings.
The free workshop begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5, at Wilkerson Hatch Bailey Funeral Home's Garden Room. Registration is available through Eventbrite, but walk-ins are welcome. The event is primarily geared toward adults, though families can attend together.